Small Business Saturday, begun in 2010, encourages people to shop at local small businesses for the holidays.

Motorcade of SUVs used Rock Creek Parkway and stopped for lights.‎ Joggers, runners, walkers, homeless under tents oblivious to POTUS.

POTUS and daughters shopped for books in tiny Upshur Street bookstore before departing at 1:17 pm. POTUS left with a brown shopping bag, and acknowledged journos with a smile as he walked to his SUV. Book titles TK.

POOL saw Obama, wearing a windbreaker, speaking to store manager Anna Thorn, but alas, not close enough to hear the conversation, which also included Malia and Sasha‎. All three Obamas had books in their arms.

For Small Business Saturday, Obama has visited Politics and Prose bookstore in the last three years. It is believed this is the first time he has visited Upshur Street ‎Books as president.

Window of shop said "Shop Local."

POTUS, and daughters Malia and Sasha, arrived at Pleasant Pops Farmhouse Market and Cafe in NW DC, to order ice cream popsicles. This was stop #2 for Small Business Saturday. POOL was allowed in after POTUS spent some minutes in the cafe. Obama, after conferring with his daughters and discussing flavor choices with Manager Benjamin Thoen behind the counter, chose a strawberry version. Employees in the cafe, per WH: -Asha Hardy -Sable Daniel -Benjamin Thoen (manager) Total bill: $9.00. President paid cash from a money-clip of bills and pronounced the frozen treats "the highlight of Small Business Saturday."

He talked to Thorn about his business and learned there is a second store, which the president suggested qualified as a small business "franchise." His daughters began savoring their own pops on the spot. The president, wearing a dark collarless, pullover shirt, athletic shoes and windbreaker, waved to bystanders on the sidewalk as he returned to his vehicle, saying "Happy holidays, everybody." Motorcade was back at the WH by 1:43 pm.

Travel/photo lid called at 1:46 pm. 2015 book purchases from Upshur Street Books, per WH: ‎ "Purity: A Novel" by Jonathan Franzen "Two Years Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights: A Novel" by Salman Rushdie "Elske: A Novel of the Kingdom" by Cynthia Voigt "On Fortune's Wheel" by Cynthia Voigt "Jackaroo: A Novel of the Kingdom" by Cynthia Voigt "A Snicker of Magic" by Natalie Lloyd "Stargirl" by Jerry Spinelli "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck, Book 8" by Jeff Kinney "Dork Diaries 1: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life" by Rachel Renée Russell

As you may have heard, for months, there has been a fierce competition between a bunch of turkeys trying to win their way into the White House. (Laughter.) Some of you caught that. Well, today, I can announce that the American people have spoken, and we have two winners. Their names are Honest and Abe. I confess that Honest looks like good eating. But this is a democracy. Abe is now a free bird. He is TOTUS –- the Turkey of the United States. (Laughter and applause.) Yes. Simas, is he attacking you? Are you okay? My political director is getting pecked by TOTUS. (Laughter.)

I want to thank the Chairman of the National Turkey Federation, Dr. Douglas, as well farmer Joe Hedden, who personally raised this turkey in California’s Central Valley. America is, after all, a country of second chances, and this turkey has earned a second chance to live out the rest of his life comfortably on one thousand acres of open land, complete with a barn called The White House on Turkey Hill. (Laughter.) Which actually sounds pretty good.

If for some reason Abe can’t fulfill his duties to walk around and gobble all day, Honest is in an undisclosed location, ready to serve as the TOTUS -- in the TOTUS line of succession. (Turkey gobbles.) (Laughter.) Oh, boy.

By the way, can I just -- I am going to publicly thank Malia and Sasha for, once again, standing here with me during the Turkey Pardon. (Laughter and applause.) They do this solely because it makes me feel good. (Laughter.) Not because they actually think that this is something I should be doing. (Laughter.) And as you get older, you appreciate when your kids just indulge you like this, so I’m very grateful.

Where was I? (Laughter.) Later today, Michelle, Malia, Sasha and I will take some of the less-fortunate turkey brothers with us -- they will have been packed and frozen -- to help serve a Thanksgiving meal to homeless veterans here in D.C. And it’s a reminder -- (applause) -- it’s a reminder not only of the spirit of giving during this holiday season, but our national obligation to make sure all those who serve and sacrifice [for] our country have a place to call home. My administration considers this one of our top priorities, making sure that we’re bringing about the reality of zero homelessness for our veterans.

And I want to thank Jaindl Turkey Farm in Pennsylvania for donating the turkeys for us to share with others for the seventh year in a row. (Applause.) It is hard to believe that this is my seventh year of pardoning a turkey. Time flies -– even if turkeys don’t. (Laughter.)

MALIA: That was good. That was good.

THE PRESIDENT: I thought it was pretty good. (Laughter.) You think it’s funny too, don’t you?

I know some folks think this tradition is a little silly. I do not disagree. I’ve got to listen to my critics say I’m often too soft on turkeys. And I’m sure the press is digging into whether or not the turkeys I’ve pardoned have really rededicated their lives to being good turkey citizens.

But I do enjoy this chance to wish America a Happy Thanksgiving. We go through challenging times, and so often the news of the day can make folks discouraged. But the fact is, is that we live in the greatest country on Earth, and we are blessed in so many ways, most of all because we have families and friends and people we care about. We look out for each other. We look out for our neighbors and our friends. We’re grateful for the brave men and women of our military who serve all around the world, and for the families that miss them. I’m especially grateful to have the privilege and the honor to serve as your President.

So, I’m also grateful for the fact that the Bears are going to beat the Packers this weekend.

With that, I hope that everybody has a very, very happy Thanksgiving. And I now am going to go over and, with the power vested in me, officially pardon this turkey. (Applause.)

WEEKLY ADDRESS: This Thanksgiving, Recognizing the Greatness of American Generosity

WASHINGTON, DC — In this week's address, the President wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving, and reflected on America’s history of welcoming men and women seeking a safer, better future for themselves and their families. On this uniquely American holiday, he recognized the greatness of American generosity, as evidenced by people around the country who use the day to volunteer and give back to others. And he shared stories of Americans who, in that same spirit of generosity, have written letters to him expressing their willingness to open their homes to refugees fleeing the brutality of ISIL. Like the pilgrims who set sail on the Mayflower nearly four centuries ago, these refugees are looking for safety and another chance. And it is important to remember that they undergo the highest security checks of anyone traveling to the United States. The President reminded us that providing refuge to some of the world’s most vulnerable people is an American tradition, and part of what makes this country the greatest on Earth.

The audio of the address and video of the address will be available online at www.whitehouse.gov at 6:00 a.m. ET, November 26.

Hi, everybody. In 1620, a small band of pilgrims came to this continent, refugees who had fled persecution and violence in their native land. Nearly 400 years later, we remember their part in the American story – and we honor the men and women who helped them in their time of need.

Thanksgiving is a day for food and football, and for hoping the turkey didn’t turn out too dry. But it’s also a day to count our blessings and give back to others – a reminder that no matter our circumstances, all of us have something to be grateful for. Maybe it’s good health, a new addition to the family, or a child taking a next step toward college or a career. Maybe it’s a new job, or a long overdue raise. Maybe it’s something as simple, and as important, as the chance to spend time with the people who matter most.

Of course, every American can be thankful for the chance to live in a country founded on the belief that all of us are created equal. And as President, I’m thankful that I get to see the best of America every day – the courage of our troops and veterans, the resilience of our families, and the basic goodness of the ordinary people who call this country home.

On this uniquely American holiday, we also remember that so much of our greatness comes from our generosity. There’s the generosity of Americans who volunteer at food banks and shelters, making sure that no one goes hungry on a day when so many plates are full. There’s the generosity of Americans who take part not just in Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but Giving Tuesday – recognizing that in the holiday season, what you give is as important as what you get.

And I’ve been touched by the generosity of the Americans who’ve written me letters and emails in recent weeks, offering to open their homes to refugees fleeing the brutality of ISIL.

Now, people should remember that no refugee can enter our borders until they undergo the highest security checks of anyone traveling to the United States. That was the case before Paris, and it’s the case now. And what happened in Paris hasn’t stopped Americans from opening their arms anyway.

One woman from Pennsylvania wrote me to say, “Money is tight for us in my household … But I have a guest room. I have a pantry full of food. We can do this.” Another woman from Florida told me her family’s history dates back to the Mayflower – and she said that welcoming others is part of “what it means to be an American.”

Nearly four centuries after the Mayflower set sail, the world is still full of pilgrims – men and women who want nothing more than the chance for a safer, better future for themselves and their families. What makes America America is that we offer that chance. We turn Lady Liberty’s light to the world, and widen our circle of concern to say that all God’s children are worthy of our compassion and care. That’s part of what makes this the greatest country on Earth.

I hope that you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving, surrounded by loved ones, and full of joy and gratitude. And together, may we all play our own small part in the American story, and write a next chapter that future generations can be thankful for.

THE PRESIDENT: Hello, everybody! (Applause.) Thank you. Everybody please have a seat. Everybody have a seat. Well, welcome to the White House, everybody. A bunch of people were saying I was pretty busy today -- which is true. (Applause.) But this is a fun kind of busy right here. Today, we celebrate some extraordinary people -- innovators, artists, and leaders -- who contribute to America’s strength as a nation. And we offer them our highest civilian honor -- the Presidential Medal of Freedom. (Applause.)

Let me tell you just a little bit about them -- although I suspect people here already know their stories. Growing up in West Virginia, Katherine Johnson counted everything. She counted steps. She counted dishes. She counted the distance to the church. By 10 years old, she was in high school. By 18, she had graduated from college with degrees in math and French. As an African-American woman, job options were limited -- but she was eventually hired as one of several female mathematicians for the agency that would become NASA.

Katherine calculated the flight path for America’s first mission in space, and the path that put Neil Armstrong on the moon. She was even asked to double-check the computer’s math on John Glenn’s orbit around the Earth. (Laughter.) So if you think your job is pressure-packed -- (laughter) -- hers meant that forgetting to carry the one might send somebody floating off into the Solar System. (Laughter.) In her 33 years at NASA, Katherine was a pioneer who broke the barriers of race and gender, showing generations of young people that everyone can excel in math and science, and reach for the stars.

In the early 1960s, a lawyer named Bill Ruckelshaus drove through Indiana in a truck, taking samples from streams “choked with dead fish.” He called it “a very good time.” (Laughter.) I think we have different definitions of “a very good time.” But it was all part of protecting Americans from big polluters. And in 1970, when Richard Nixon created the Environmental Protection Agency, he made Bill, a fellow Republican, its first director. Under Bill’s leadership, the EPA developed new clean air standards, banned the harmful pesticide DDT. Most importantly, Bill set a powerful precedent that protecting our environment is something we must come together and do as a country.

He became known as “Mr. Clean” -- and lived up to that nickname when he resigned from the Nixon administration rather than derail the Watergate investigation. He’s never truly retired -- in recent years he's led the fight to protect Puget Sounds, and he's urged his fellow Republicans to join him in combating climate change. So he spent his life putting country before party or politics. He reminds us how noble public service can be. And our air and water is cleaner and our lives are brighter because of him.

Back in 1966, plans were laid for a highway straight through some of Baltimore’s most diverse neighborhoods. The new road seemed like a go. It was about to happen -- that is, until it ran into a young social worker -- and let’s just say you don’t want to get on the wrong side of Barbara Mikulski. (Laughter.) She stopped that highway and jumpstarted one of the finest public service careers we’ve ever seen. And for decades, Barbara has been a lion -- lioness -- on Capitol Hill, fighting for working families, fighting for high-tech, high-paying jobs, fighting for the prospects of America’s women and girls.

I couldn’t have been prouder to have her by my side as I signed into law the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act -- first law that I signed. (Applause.) Barbara’s legacy reflects her roots -- a mom who offered grocery store credit to steelworkers on strike; a dad who greeted every customer with a friendly “Can I help you?” We are all lucky that’s a question Barbara’s been asking -- and answering -- longer than any female lawmaker in our history. (Applause.)

There are people in our country’s history who don’t look left or right -- they just look straight ahead. Shirley Chisholm was one of those people. Driven by a profound commitment to justice, she became the first African-American congresswoman -- the first African-American woman from a major political party -- to run for President. When Shirley was assigned to the House Agricultural Committee -- despite the fact that her district was from New York City -- (laughter) -- she said, “Apparently all they know here in Washington about Brooklyn is that a tree grew there.” (Laughter.) But she made the most of her new role, helping to create the supplemental nutrition program that feeds poor mothers and their children. Shirley Chisholm’s example transcends her life. And when asked how she’d like to be remembered, she had an answer: “I’d like them to say that Shirley Chisholm had guts.” And I’m proud to say it: Shirley Chisholm had guts.

“At its best,” Lee Hamilton once said, “representative democracy gives us a system where all of us have a voice in the process and a stake in the product.” In his 34 years in Congress, Lee Hamilton was a faithful servant to that ideal, representing his district, his beloved Indiana, and his country with integrity and honor. As head of the House Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committees, he helped guide us through the Cold War and into a new era of American leadership, a man widely admired on both sides of the aisle for his honesty, his wisdom, and consistent commitment to bipartisanship. From serving as vice chair of the 9/11 Commission to making Congress more effective, Lee remains a tireless public servant and a trusted advisor and friend to many -- and I am proud to count myself among them.

We also celebrate those who have stirred our souls and lifted our spirits as icons of the stage, screen and song. Born in Brooklyn to a middle-class Jewish family -- I didn’t know you were Jewish, Barbra -- (laughter) -- Barbra Streisand attended her first Broadway show at age 14 and remembers thinking, “I could go up on that stage and play any role without any trouble at all.” That’s what’s called chutzpah. (Laughter.) And it helps when you’ve got amazing talent, all of which made her a global sensation -- one whose voice has been described as “liquid diamonds,” and whose fans have considered bronzing her used coffee cups. (Laughter.) She has sold more albums in America than any woman in history. She has collected just about every honor and award that there is. I couldn’t believe she hadn’t gotten this one. (Laughter.) Off the stage, she has been a passionate advocate for issues like heart disease and women’s equality. I’m getting all “verklempt” just thinking about it. (Laughter.)

In an interview, violinist Itzhak Perlman was once asked what sound he loves, and his eyes lit up and he replied, “The sound of onions sizzling in a pan.” (Laughter.) This is a man of large appetites who knows how to live. He also happens to be a pretty good musician, and persevered through childhood polio to become not only a virtuoso but also a powerful advocate for people with disabilities. He has played with every major orchestra in the world, conducted many of them, taught generations of young musicians. He has won Grammys. He has won Emmys. He’s performed with all the greats -- Leonard Bernstein. Yo-Yo Ma. Telly from Sesame Street. (Laughter.) But what truly sets him apart and what makes him perhaps the most beloved violinist of our time is that he approaches music the way he approaches everything in life -- with passion and with joy. He lays bare the soul of a piece, making us feel each note, and giving us a glimpse of something bigger than ourselves. And by doing so, he makes the world a little more beautiful.

I’m proud to call the next honoree a friend, as well. The truth is, a lot of people say that about James Taylor. That’s what happens when you spend four decades telling people, “Just call out my name, and I’ll come running.” (Laughter.) But that’s the thing about James -- you always feels like he’s singing only to you. As a fan of his once said, James can “turn an arena into a living room.” It’s why he became one of the driving forces of the singer-songwriter movement. And his honesty and candor about overcoming substance abuse has inspired not only his music, but people all around the world. So come Fire or Rain; come Carolina, Mexico, or a Country Road -- James Taylor is there to comfort us, to help us look within, and to urge us all to Shower the People we love with love.

On a Miami night in 1975, a young woman named Gloria walked into a wedding reception and saw a handsome young man named Emilio leading his band. He was playing “Do the Hustle” -- on an accordion. (Laughter.) I’m quoting her now -- she said she found this “sexy and brave.” (Laughter.) I mean, the brave part I understand. (Laughter.) But it turns out he had a few other things up his sleeve. He brought her up to sing a few songs that night, invited her to join his band. A few months later, Emilio asked Gloria for a birthday kiss. It was not her birthday -- it wasn’t his birthday. But he got the kiss anyway. And Emilio and Gloria Estefan have been partners -- on and off-stage -- ever since.

Some worried they were “too American for Latins and too Latin for Americans.” Turns out everybody just wanted to dance and do the conga. And together, their fusion sound has sold more than 100 million records. And as proud Cuban-Americans, they’ve promoted their cultural heritage and inspired fans all over the world.

“An awful lot of people have gone…to musicals to forget their troubles…” -- just like they were dancing to Estefan’s music. Stephen Sondheim I think is somebody who is not interested in that. As a composer and a lyricist, and a genre unto himself, Sondheim challenges his audiences. His greatest hits aren’t tunes you can hum; they’re reflections on roads we didn’t take, and wishes gone wrong, relationships so frayed and fractured there’s nothing left to do but send in the clowns. Yet Stephen’s music is so beautiful, his lyrics so precise, that even as he exposes the imperfections of everyday life, he transcends them. We transcend them. Put simply, Stephen reinvented the American musical. He’s loomed large over more than six decades in the theater. And with revivals from Broadway to the big screen, he is still here, pulling us up short, and giving us support for “being alive.”

Here’s how Steven Spielberg once explained his creative process. “Once a month, the sky falls on my head. I come to, and I see another movie I want to make.” (Laughter.) This sounds painful for Steven, but it has worked out pretty well for the rest of us. In his career, Steven has introduced us to extraterrestrials, rogue archeologists, killer sharks. He’s taken us to Neverland, Jurassic Park, but also the beaches of Normandy, and Nazi concentration camps. Despite redefining the word “prolific,” a Spielberg movie is still a Spielberg movie. (Phone rings.) Somebody is calling to see if they can book him for a deal right now. (Laughter.) They want to make pitch -- “so there’s this really good-looking President and -- (laughter).

A Spielberg movie, marked by boundless imagination, worlds rendered in extraordinary detail, characters whose struggle to seize control of their destinies -- all of that reminds us so powerfully of our own lives. And Steven’s films are marked most importantly by a faith in our common humanity -- the same faith in humanity that led him to create the Shoah Foundation, and lend a voice to survivors of genocide around the world. His stories have shaped America’s story, and his values have shaped our world.

So we celebrate artists, public servants -- and two legends from America’s pastime. What can be said about Lawrence “Yogi” Berra that he couldn’t say better himself? (Laughter.) The son of an Italian bricklayer, they called him “Yogi” because he sat like one while waiting to bat.

And he was born to play baseball. But he loved his country, and at 18, he left St. Louis for the Navy, and ultimately found himself on Omaha Beach. After he returned, Yogi embarked on a career that would make him one of the greatest catchers of all time. With the Yankees, he played in 14 World Series in 18 years, won 10 World Series rings, and three MVP awards. He had, as one biographer put it, “the winningest career in the history of American sports.” Nobody has won more than this guy. And he coached the game with as much heart as he played it. He lived his life with pride and humility, and an original, open mind. One thing we know for sure, “If you can’t imitate him, don’t copy him.” (Laughter.) It took everybody a while. (Laughter.)

We don’t have time to list all of Willie Mays’s statistics -- 660 home runs, .302 lifetime batting average. The list goes on and on. I won’t describe that miracle grab at the Polo Grounds, either -- because Willie says that wasn’t even his best catch. I will say this: We have never seen an all-around, five-tool player quite like Willie before -- and we haven’t seen one since. He could throw and he could field, hit for contact and for power. And, of course, he was so fast, he could barely keep a hat on his head. On top of that, Willie also served our country, and his quiet example while excelling on one of America’s biggest stages helped carry forward the banner of civil rights. A few years ago, Willie rode with me on Air Force One. I told him then what I’ll tell all of you now -- it’s because of giants like Willie that someone like me could even think about running for President. (Applause.)

Finally, we celebrate those who have challenged us to live up to our values. Billy Frank Jr. liked to say, “I wasn’t a policy guy. I was a getting-arrested guy.” And that’s true. Billy was arrested more than 50 times in his fight to protect tribal fishing rights and save the salmon that had fed his family for generations. He was spat on, shot at, chased and clubbed and cast as an outlaw. But Billy kept fighting. Because he knew he was right. And in 1974, a federal judge agreed, honoring the promises made to Northwest tribes more than a century before. Billy went on to become a national voice for Indian Country and a warrior for the natural world. “I don’t believe in magic,” Billy once said. “I believe in the sun and the stars, the water, the hawks flying, the rivers running, the wind talking.” They tell us how healthy we are, he said, “because we and they are the same.”

Twenty-three years ago, Bonnie Carroll’s world was turned upside down. Her husband, Tom, a brigadier general in the Army, was killed in a plane crash, along with seven other soldiers. Heartbroken, Bonnie began healing the only way that she knew how -- by helping others. She founded the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, creating a national community to support the families of our fallen servicemembers. And each year, TAPS holds seminars and workshops for military families across the country. Through their Good Grief camps, they bring together children of our fallen to learn how to cope with loss, to honor the legacy of their heroes -- and to try and have some fun, as well. As one Gold Star child who lost her father in Iraq said, “[Because of TAPS], I know someone is by my side.”

On a Saturday night in March of 1942, Minoru Yasui left his law office to walk around Portland, Oregon. It was a seemingly ordinary act that defied the discriminatory military curfew imposed on Japanese Americans during World War II. Min took his case to the Supreme Court and lost, a decision he fought for the rest of his life. Yet despite what Japanese Americans endured -- suspicion, hostility, forced removal, internment -- Min never stopped believing in the promise of his country. He never stopped fighting for equality and justice for all. “We believe in the greatness and in the great ideals of this country,” he once said. “We think that there is a future for all humanity in the United States of America.” Today, Min’s legacy has never been more important. It is a call to our national conscience; a reminder of our enduring obligation to be “the land of the free and the home of the brave” -- an America worthy of his sacrifice.

So, ladies and gentlemen, these are the recipients of the 2015 Presidential Medal of Freedom. Let’s give them a big round of applause. (Applause.)

And now -- have a seat. We’re not done. They’ve got to get some hardware here. (Laughter.) To my military aide, let’s read the citations.

MILITARY AIDE: Presidential Medal of Freedom citations.

Larry Berra, receiving on behalf of Lawrence Peter Berra. One of our nation’s most beloved and quotable sports heroes, Lawrence Peter “Yogi” Berra was a world-class baseball player and a great spirit. He left home to join the Navy, fought on D-Day, and came home with a Purple Heart. As a three-time MVP Major League catcher, he won 10 World Series Championships. As the manager of the New York Yankees, he guided his team and the sport he loved with a wisdom that lives in our national consciousness, and taught us all that we can observe a lot just by watching. (Applause.)

Bonnie Carroll. (Applause.) After her husband died in an Army plane crash, Bonnie Carroll channeled her own grief into service. As the founder of the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, she has devoted her life to building a network to support families who, like hers, made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Bonnie has comforted the hearts and lifted the lives of thousands of families across the country. Her strength and generosity are a testament to the enduring human spirit. (Applause.)

Andre Dubois, receiving on behalf of the honorable Shirley Chisholm. (Applause.) As the first African-American Congresswoman and the first African-American woman to seek a major party nomination for President, Shirley Chisholm carried the torch of progress into a new era of American politics. From classrooms in New York City to committee rooms in Congress, she gave voice to the plight of marginalized communities, built coalitions to expand social justice, and denounced sexism and racism. By refusing to stand on the sidelines, never letting others define her limits, and daring to be herself, Shirley Chisholm embodied the American spirit.

Emilio Estefan, Jr. (Applause.) Gloria Estefan. (Applause.) A native of Havana, Cuba, Emilio Estefan, Jr. rose to become a musician, producer, and businessman. Bringing his distinctive Latin sound to North America’s pop music audiences, he proved that the power of music transcends cultural, social, and economic boundaries. By using song to celebrate and elevate the accomplishments of Latin Americans, Emilio Estefan has blended cultures and created a new, wholly American sound. (Applause.)

With her infectious rhythm and iconic vocals, Gloria Estefan is a music powerhouse who has sold millions of records across the globe. Transporting the spirit of Havana to Miami and beyond, her music broke down barriers and established Latin music in the American mainstream. A humanitarian and a devoted family leader, Gloria Estefan embodies the story of America, and of a pioneer who will forever symbolize the potential of all those who passionately develop their talents and build their dreams. (Applause.)

Peggen Frank, receiving on behalf of Billy Frank, Jr. (Applause.) Billy Frank, Jr. devoted his life to protecting the rights of Native Americans and to conserving our planet. For over 50 years, he tirelessly and fearlessly fought for the preservation of traditional ways of life and the protection of treaty fishing rights. He was widely renowned as an advocate for the physical and cultural survival of Native Americans. His legacy reminds us that the pursuit of equality and justice is the work of every generation. (Applause.)

The Honorable Lee H. Hamilton. (Applause.) A leading voice on foreign policy and national security, Lee H. Hamilton has played a pivotal role in developing solutions to some of the most complex challenges of our time. His leadership in Congress reflected his profound commitment to preserving the safety and integrity of our nation, and his role in promoting civic engagement has made an impact that will endure for generations to come. Lee H. Hamilton has helped steer the course of American history in a spirit of bipartisanship, and he continues to strengthen the homeland and promote diplomacy. (Applause.)

Katherine G. Johnson. (Applause.) With her razor-sharp mathematical mind, Katherine G. Johnson helped broaden the scope of space travel, charting new frontiers for humanity’s exploration of space, and creating new possibilities for all humankind. From sending the first American to space to the first moon landing, she played a critical role in many of NASA’s most important milestones. Katherine G. Johnson refused to be limited by society’s expectations of her gender and race while expanding the boundaries of humanity’s reach. (Applause.)

Willie Howard Mays, Jr. (Applause.) Born in segregated Alabama, Willie Howard Mays, Jr. grew up to become one of the greatest baseball players of all time. With his unmatched power and agility, he stepped into the history books as a two-time MVP with 660 career home runs and 24 all-star appearances. Along the way, the “Say Hey Kid” captured hearts across America. His life story reminds us of the power of hard work and determination -- and his legacy continues to inspire generations of Americans. (Applause.)

The Honorable Barbara A. Mikulski. (Applause.) For decades, Barbara A. Mikulski has served the people of Maryland and our nation with conviction, heart, and a spirit of selflessness. As a social worker, community organizer, city councilor, and the longest-serving woman in Congress, she has been a tireless advocate for families, women, children, and seniors. In the Senate, Barbara A. Mikulski has wielded her power to fight for equality and fairness for the most vulnerable members of our society. Her example helped pave the way for other women in elected office, and her legacy will endure in all those who climb the ladder of opportunity she fought to build. (Applause.)

Itzhak Perlman. (Applause.) A teacher, conductor, and one of the greatest violinists of our time, Itzhak Perlman was -- brought joy to millions, inspired countless new artists, and earned adoration from global audiences. Born in Israel, he has devoted his life to sharing his love of music. From Tel Aviv to Shanghai, from London to Moscow, he has served as one of the world’s most cherished cultural ambassadors, as well as a tireless advocate for the disabled. Itzhak Perlman’s heartfelt performances on stage, and dedicated efforts to educate the next generation will continue to enrich the human symphony. (Applause.)

The Honorable William D. Ruckelshaus. (Applause.) From his time as an Army drill sergeant to his service at the highest levels of government, William D. Ruckelshaus has served our nation with dedication and integrity. The first administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, he led the government’s efforts to help communities struggling with contaminated rivers and polluted cities. Years later, he returned to the helm to carry forward its mission of environmental stewardship. With conviction and courage, William D. Ruckelshaus continues to place principle over politics, continuing his lifetime of advocacy on behalf of our nation and our planet. (Applause.)

Stephen Sondheim. (Applause.) An acclaimed lyricist and composer, Stephen Sondheim is master of the American musical. His witty, poignant shows tell tales of misfits, romantics, dreamers, and lunatics, each meticulously wrought, many grappling with the dark urges or dashed hopes. Yet his musicals are also full of joyous energy, sustained by gorgeous melodies and brilliant turns of phrase. His astonishing body of work includes many of our nation’s best-loved, most frequently staged musicals, and people around the world know and love his songs. Stephen Sondheim has forever left his mark on the American stage. (Applause.)

Steven Spielberg. (Applause.) From E.T. and Jurassic Park to Saving Private Ryan and Schindler's List, Steven Spielberg has firmly established his place as one of history's most influential filmmakers. He has brought entire universes to life, broadened our horizons, and ushered iconic American characters into being. Our world has been shaped by his stories, and through his Shoah Foundation, he's helped thousands of survivors of genocide tell world-changing stories of their own. He represents the best of American culture and humanitarianism, and we honor his timeless contributions to our national life. (Applause.)

Barbra Joan Streisand. (Applause.) For six decades, Barbra Joan Streisand has used her extraordinary voice to bring life to the range and humor of the human experience. Her talent, authenticity, and bold performances have left an indelible mark on American film, theater and music, inspiring generations of fans and performers. As a philanthropist and powerful advocate for women’s heart health, she encourages others to use their own voices to make a difference. Barbra Joan Streisand’s legacy will endure in the American narrative. (Applause.)

James Taylor. (Applause.) For decades, James Taylor has used the power of music to enrich our nation and the world. From longing and love to loss and renewal, his intimate songwriting captures the heart of the human experience. Through fire and rain and so much more, each generation that grows to know James Taylor’s music will continue to be moved by his timelessness and enduring beauty. (Applause.)

Holly Yasui, receiving on behalf of Minoru Yasui. (Applause.) From the fruit farms of Oregon to the hallowed halls of the Supreme Court, Minoru Yasui devoted his life to fighting for basic human rights and the fair and equal treatment of every American. In challenging the military curfew placed on Japanese Americans during World War II, he brought critical attention to the issue, and paved the way for all Americans to stand as full and equal citizens. Minoru Yasui’s example endures as a reminder of the power of one voice echoing for justice. (Applause.)

THE PRESIDENT: Give them a big round of applause, the 2015 Presidential Medal of Freedom winners. (Applause.) This is an extraordinary group. Even by the standards of Medal of Freedom recipients, this is a class act.

We are just reminded when we see these individuals here on the stage what an incredible tapestry this country is. And what a great blessing to be in a nation where individuals as diverse, from as wildly different backgrounds, can help to shape our dreams, how we live together, help define justice and freedom and love. They represent what’s best in us, and we are very, very proud to be able to celebrate them here today.

My understanding is also there’s pretty good food in the White House, so please enjoy the reception. And congratulations to all the recipients. Thank you very much, everybody. (Applause.)

WASHINGTON, DC – On Wednesday, November 25, the President will pardon the National Thanksgiving Turkey in a ceremony in the Rose Garden. The President will celebrate the 68th anniversary of the National Thanksgiving Turkey presentation, reflect upon the time-honored traditions of Thanksgiving, and wish American families a safe and healthy holiday. The 2015 National Thanksgiving Turkey and its alternate were hatched and raised in California.

After the pardoning, the turkeys will be on display for visitors at their permanent home at Morven Park’s “Turkey Hill,” the historic turkey farm located at the home of former Virginia Governor Westmoreland Davis (1918-1922) in Leesburg, Virginia.

Office of the First Lady_________________________________________________________________For Immediate Release November 17, 2015

REMARKS BY THE FIRST LADYAT NATIONAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES YOUTH PROGRAM AWARDS

East Room

2:31 P.M. EST

MRS. OBAMA: Well, good afternoon, everyone. And welcome to the White House for the 2015 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program awards.

Let me begin by thanking everyone from the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities for their extraordinary leadership. The President and I are, as always, grateful for everything that you do not just for this administration, but for the country and for young people like the ones we’re honoring today.

I also want to acknowledge our other sponsors and guests: The NEA, the NEH, the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences [Services], and the Ambassador of Honduras, Ambassador Milla, who is here with us. Thank you all for joining us today.

I also want to, of course, recognize all of the teachers and mentors and administrators who make these programs possible. I know that you all put in a lot of long hours and late nights, and you deal with endless phone calls, and paperwork, and budget meetings, and kids and parents complaining, and all kinds of stuff. But I also know that the payoff makes it all worth it, because you know better than anyone how the arts and humanities can transform young people’s lives.

And thanks to your efforts -- amazing efforts, we have the pleasure of welcoming young people from every corner of our country to the White House today. We have students from all parts of the country receiving awards on behalf of programs from Savannah, Sioux Falls, Pasadena, Indianapolis, Brooklyn, and right here in Washington, D.C -- and the list goes on and on and on, right? (Laughter.)

Now, I was told that at least one of our guests –- 19 year old Ibrahim Shkara of Portland, Maine –- where’s Ibrahim? I read somewhere that you were a little nervous to meet me and shake my hand at the White House today. (Laughter.) Are you really nervous now? (Laughter.) Because, of course, we found you. We took your quote and we thought we’d really make you nervous. (Laughter.) But you told your local paper that -- these are his words -- “It’s a big thing.” (Laughter.) Good quotes. Poetic.

Well, let me tell you, Ibrahim, I think it’s even a bigger thing for me to have you all here. It really is -- and all the other amazing young people that are here today. This is a big deal for us, and we’re proud of all of you.

I always say this, but it is true: You all inspire me, and so many of us here. You inspire us with your passion, your dedication, your commitment, your beautiful smiles -- because you all are gorgeous, like right out of Hollywood casting or something. (Laughter.) All of your breathtaking achievements -- you guys keep us going.

And through the programs that we’re honoring today, you guys have done so much. You’ve become published authors, award-winning photographers. You’ve engaged in rigorous scientific research. You’ve even shown off your dance moves during the halftime -- game of the Wizards. (Laughter.) I’ve been known to bust a move every now and then. (Laughter and applause.) And thousands of kids all across America are dreaming just a little bigger and they’re reaching a little higher thanks to after-school programs that you all represent.

And we know that these programs don’t just expose kids to the arts and humanities; they teach skills like problem solving and discipline and teamwork. And these skills aren’t just important in the photo lab or on the stage; they’re also critical in the classroom. They will be critical in the boardroom. And, frankly, they’re skills that you’ll use when you wind up here one day at the White House -- because I know some of you are headed here. Yes. (Laughter.)

The evidence is crystal clear. We know what arts means to kids. Kids who get involved in the arts and humanities, they have higher grades. They have higher graduation rates. They have higher college-enrollment rates. We all know that. We quote these statistics every time we get together, but we don’t need stats to understand the power of the arts and humanities. We don’t need to read the research. All we have to do is ask the students who are with us today.

Take our student speaker, who will be sharing his story with us later today, André Massey. André, where are you? Yeah, I got a hug form André earlier today. It was very nice. (Laughter.) André is from the Young Author Project at Deep Center in Savannah. André says -- and this is -- these are his words -- he said, “I thought I was just going to write a few poems and maybe get a chance to read them in public. But Deep did more than that.” He said, “It changed my life” and “showed me how to express myself.”

Or let’s take Chofian Abokbar. Where’s Chofian? Hi, honey, how are you? Welcome. (Laughter.) I feel like I know you because I’ve read so much about you guys. It’s good to see your faces. When Chofian arrived in South Dakota from Turkey four years ago, she didn’t speak a word of English. She couldn’t even spell her name. But when she attended the Washington Pavilion program, she got involved with the arts, and now she’s chatting up a storm, we understand -- (laughter) -- as a star volunteer with the program.

And finally, I think about young people like Dalon Poole. Dalon, where are you? Hey! How you doing? It’s good. Dalon is from Pasadena. Not so long ago, he didn’t have big dreams or big plans for his future. But then he enrolled in a photography class and everything changed. Now, he says, because of the program, he said “Before I started, I didn’t know I was going to college. But now there’s a chance I could go.” There’s more than a chance, right, Dalon? Keep going, right? (Laughter.) It’s not a chance. It’s going to happen, right? Okay, that’s good. (Laughter.) We’ve got you on camera. (Laughter and applause.) And remember the young person I said had become a prize-winning photographer early in the speech? Well, that’s Dalon. That’s you. That’s you. And I can report that he used the prize money to buy his first real camera. Is that true? I hope so. (Laughter.)

So I’m proud of all of you -- these amazing young people and all the outstanding young people here today who can tell -- who have similar stories that I could tell. And that’s why we’re going to keep working to promote these programs. Because, as I’ve said many times before, arts education is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. It’s really the air many of these kids breathe. It’s how we get kids excited about getting up and going to school in the morning. It’s how we get them to take ownership of their future. And, most importantly, it’s how we get kids like Dalon to go to college.

So this is real. And it’s critical. And it should be something that every kid has access to. So I want to end today by, once again, thanking all of the adults here today for making these programs possible. And I want to thank all the young people here for working so hard and taking your education so seriously. I am proud of all of you. I’m happy you all are here. I’m excited to see everything that you’ll achieve in the future -- what you’ll contribute to your schools, your communities, and more, importantly, to our country.

So thank you all again. Thank you for joining us today. And with that, it is my honor to introduce someone who is such a passionate champion for arts education, such a visionary leader on behalf of our young people -- my friend, the Executive Director of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, Rachel Goslins. (Applause.)

Now, before we begin tonight’s show, I want to take a moment to talk about what happened in Paris. As I said this morning, all of us remain heartbroken and outraged over this horrific act. And our thoughts and prayers are very much with the victims, their families, and all of the people of France.

And as my husband said on Friday, this was an attack not just on France, our dear friend and oldest ally, but on all of humanity and our shared values. So as we mourn, we must continue to shine a light on the strength of those shared values and hopes. That’s what events like this are about.

But before we get started, I’d like to ask that we pause for a moment of silence.

(A moment of silence is observed.)

Thank you.

I am so thrilled to welcome so many living legends of Broadway here to the White House. We have our hosts for this event, Kristin Chenoweth and Matthew Morrison. We’ve got Gloria Estefan, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Cicely Tyson, Stephen Schwartz -- the list goes on and on. And they’re joining us here today for one of our favorite White House traditions.

You see, while our family might live upstairs, the President and I know that the White House is truly the People’s House. It belongs to all of us, and it should reflect and celebrate the very best in us. So over the years, we’ve hosted all kinds of performances to highlight our nation’s talent and honor our cultural heritage, from gospel to Motown to country. And tonight, we’re celebrating another cornerstone of our culture by taking a trip to Broadway. (Applause.)

For over a hundred years, Broadway has been bringing us together to make us laugh, to make us cry, to make us think, and, most of all, to tell our stories. And since America is such a big, bold, beautiful nation, that’s how our stories are told on Broadway –- with show-stopping dance routines, and soaring musical numbers, and heart-wrenching, side-splitting performances that we never forget.

And these shows don’t just entertain us, they educate and inspire us. That’s what Kristin Chenoweth did when she reminded us not to judge a book by its cover in “Wicked”. It’s what Ana Villafañe and Josh Segarra are doing in Gloria Estefan’s “On Your Feet,” showing us the power of the American Dream. It’s what Bobbi MacKenzie is doing in “School of Rock,” helping us understand how music can change a young person’s life.

And that mix of extraordinary talent and powerful stories draws people from all over the country and all over the world. In fact, last year alone, more than 13 million people attended a Broadway show. And Broadway is returning the favor by sharing the magic of theater with students across the nation through discounted student tickets, and through the Kids Night on Broadway program, and through a partnership that will bring over 20,000 New York City high school students to see a show.

And today, we are thrilled to welcome 40 talented young people from high school arts and after-school programs across this country. Earlier this afternoon, some of the Broadway stars who are here today met with these students to host workshops and answer their questions. And as a special treat, some of these young people are even going to perform for us today.

And that’s really what today is all about -– it’s about inspiring our next generation. It’s about sharing America’s proud cultural legacy with people from all walks of life across this country. I think Lorraine Hansberry, the first African American woman to write a Broadway show, put it best when she spoke to a group of young artists and told them, simply: “This nation needs your gifts.”

And I want to close today by thanking our guests for sharing their gifts and inspiring our young people. Most of us aren’t able to make it to Broadway, but today, these extraordinary artists are bringing Broadway to us. I am so grateful to all of them for joining us here today.

And it is now my pleasure to turn things over to our wonderful hosts to get us started. So please join me in welcoming two incredible and talented performers, Kristin Chenoweth and Matthew Morrison. (Applause.)

MRS. OBAMA: And one of my favorite lines is: Welcome to the White House. Today, it’s: Welcome to “Broadway at the White House.” Pretty exciting, huh?

But before I begin, I just want to take a moment to talk a bit about what happened in Paris. Our thoughts and prayers of course are very much with the victims, their families, and all of the people of France. And we will continue to keep them in our hearts in the days ahead.

As my husband said on Friday, this was an attack not just on France, our dear friend and ally, but on all of humanity and our shared values. And as we mourn, we know that we must continue to show the strength of those values and hopes that the President spoke about when he talked. And the beauty is that all of you here, our young people that are here, you all reflect that passion, that creativity. You all are a part of those values that the President talked about. That’s what we’re protecting. We’re protecting what you all represent.

So as we mourn, as we align with our ally, we continue to celebrate you all. It is still a gift to have you all here. And we want to continue to lift you all up and make sure that you’re getting all the support and love you need, because you’re the future. So I hope you’re having a good day -- are you?

AUDIENCE: Yes! (Applause.)

Well, this group of young people, you guys are some of the most talented young people in this country. Did you know that? (Laughter.) Just say, yes. Own it. (Laughter.) Say, yes, of course. You’re representing some wonderful programs all over the country. We’ve got students here from Los Angeles -- can I hear our L.A. people? (Applause.) New Jersey in the house. (Applause.) New Jersey is a little livelier than L.A. (Laughter.) West Virginia. (Applause.) Well, there you go. Maryland. (Applause.) And right here in our own backyard, Washington, D.C. (Applause.) All right. Have you all been enjoying your morning here so far? That’s good.

And what an exciting day this has already been for many of you, right? You know it’s going to be a good day when you start off by hanging out at the White House with Harvey -- this guy, Harvey Weinstein, and Whoopi Goldberg, and Matthew Morrison -- (laughter) -- and Gloria Estefan, and Gabriella Pizzolo, and Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Diane Paulus. I mean, come on. You already won. Let’s just drop the mic and leave, right? (Laughter.)

And earlier this morning, you all participated in small group workshops where you did some real hands-on work. And in fact, I just saw a small group of you all, a few of you. I did the conga with you all as you performed only moments ago. You all were amazing. I thought you had been practicing for days, but you had only been down there for an hour or so, so that’s pretty good.

But in addition to actually performing, this morning you learned about directing –- what it takes to lead dozens of actors while keeping track of hundreds of music and lighting cues. You learned about acting –- how to really move an audience; to make people laugh and cry and think all at the same time. You learned about singing -- something I know nothing about –- how it comes both from the lungs but also from the heart. And you learned about makeup and costuming -- something that I like -- how to transform an actor into a character like the Wicked Witch of the West.

So it sounds pretty good. And we’re just getting started, because this afternoon, you’re going to top it off by learning about music composition from Stephen Schwartz, a Broadway icon who wrote classics like “Godspell” and “Pippin” and “Wicked.” So you’ve got a day, right? Pretty good. And I also want to make sure that we thank folks like Steven and all the other extraordinary artists for taking the time to share their wisdom and genius and passion with all of us today. So let’s show our amazing, talented moderators, panelists and workshop leaders our love. Thank you all. (Applause.)

If you just look up on this stage, these are some pretty busy people. And the fact that they’ve taken a huge chunk of their time out to be here with you today is pretty special. But there’s a reason why they’ve taken the time to be here with you today. It’s -- their reason is the same thing -- the reason why President Obama and I have been hosting workshops like this one here at the White House since we first came to Washington. And that’s because, while our family may live upstairs -- which we do, right up there -- so we hear you when you’re singing and laughing and dancing -- the White House, for us, is truly the People’s House. We’re just here for a couple of years. We’re renting. (Laughter.) But it belongs to all of you. And we want to open it up to as many people as possible, particularly our young people -- young people like you.

We also invited you all here today because we believe in you. And we always think that there’s a good reason to invite a bunch of talented young people to the White House to make sure they know how special they are. The President and I and everyone on this stage, we know how extraordinary you guys are. And these folks are here today to honor you and to hopefully inspire you. They’re also here with an important message for you about what it takes to succeed, not just on Broadway, but in life.

It took a lot more than their just pure, raw talent for these folks to be where they are. They weren’t born knowing how to act or direct or sing. Their achievements took years of honing -– thousands of hours memorizing lines, rehearsing for that big scene; endless late nights spent getting over stage fright, calming their nerves, figuring out how to step on that stage and get it right; countless auditions and interviews, and plenty of heartbreaks and failures -- before they finally found success. And that’s something we want to remind all young people. It looks easy up here; you think that the path is always straight, but it rarely is.

For example, you think about how Gabriella got here where she is today. She might be the youngest person up here today, but she’s been training and performing since she was, oh, six years old. (Laughter.) Long time ago. (Laughter.) She was the understudy for all three young characters in the musical “Fun Home.” She had to spend hours memorizing all of their lines -- she practically had to memorize the whole play. But her hard work paid off, because when one of the actors got sick last year, Gabriella was ready. And with just 15 minutes’ notice, she hopped right on stage and she stole the show. Is that true?

MS. PIZZOLO: It was very fun, and everybody was helping me through it. So it was a team effort.

MRS. OBAMA: And she’s modest. She’s very modest. (Laughter.) But she stole the show. (Laughter.)

Then there’s my dear friend, Gloria Estefan. After Gloria’s family fled Cuba when she was two years old, Gloria’s dad served in Vietnam, and ultimately, he fell ill. So while her mom supported their family, it was up to Gloria to do the chores and look after her sister and take care of her dad. And of course, that couldn’t have been easy. So Gloria would spend hours practicing her guitar in her room and pouring her emotions into her poetry, and performing for her mother to keep their spirits up.

And because she put the time in to develop that talent, when she met this guy named Emilio -- we know him. You guys are babies, but he’s pretty phenomenal -- he heard her music, and he asked her to join his band. And that’s why Gloria -- not just a singing -- mom anymore. Instead, she’s sold over 100 million records. She has won seven Grammys. And she now has her own Broadway musical. (Applause.) And when talking about how Gloria was able to achieve so much -- this is a quote, this is what she said -- she says, “If you put in the work and persevere, success is what you’re going to get back.”

And that’s true not just on stage, but in every aspect of your lives, and it’s something we really try to drive home with the young people that we work with. No matter what you want to do in life -- whether you want to be an actor or a doctor or a scientist or a teacher, or even a good parent, quite frankly -- it takes a lot of hard work and perseverance. You’re going to need to learn all kinds of skills. You’ve got to have that foundation of an education in the end. Going to school and getting that foundation is only going to prepare you to do the kinds of things you want -- whether it’s singing or producing or songwriting. You’ve got to be in school, and you’ve got to show up, and you’ve got to do the homework, and you’ve got to put in 120 percent.

You can’t be late. You can’t just not show up. Because part of showing up in school is practicing being able to show up when it’s time to do your part. You’ve got to be there if you’re going to replace the lead as an understudy. You have to be on time. You have to be consistent. And all this you learn and you practice in school.

So never, never think that school is just sort of that side thing you do to get where you want to be. School and education lays the foundation so that you can ultimately be great at what you do. It’s all relevant, okay?

So I want you guys to kick back today and enjoy yourselves. If you haven’t already loosened up, please do. Because you have a wealth of experience here. They’re ready to talk to you. So I want you guys to be bold and ask questions and take notes and listen and remember this day for the rest of your lives. And hopefully every message that you hear will ring somewhere in you, and one day along the line, you will pull out and draw upon these messages, and it will get you through. That’s what we want you to do here. And have fun, okay?

All right. With that, I’m going to turn it over to the panel. Whoopi, you’re in charge, as always. (Laughter.) I feel for you all. (Laughter.) You guys, have fun. Love you. Take care. (Applause.)

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Barack Obama named seventeen recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. The awards will be presented at the White House on November 24th.

President Obama said, “I look forward to presenting these 17 distinguished Americans with our nation’s highest civilian honor. From public servants who helped us meet defining challenges of our time to artists who expanded our imaginations, from leaders who have made our union more perfect to athletes who have inspired millions of fans, these men and women have enriched our lives and helped define our shared experience as Americans.”

All members of the media who wish to cover this event must RSVP via the following link by 10AM ET on Monday, November 23: LINK

NOTE: Members of the media who do not have a White House hard pass must also fill out the following form for access to the White House complex: LINK

The following individuals will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom:

Yogi Berra (posthumous)Yogi Berra spent over 40 years as a professional baseball catcher, manager, and coach. Widely regarded as one of the greatest catchers in baseball history – and an all-time Yankee great – Berra was an 18-time All-Star and 10-time World Series Champion who was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972. Always quick witted, Berra was famous for his “Yogi-isms,” teaching us all that we can observe a lot just by watching. Berra was also a lifelong ambassador for inclusion in sports. Berra put his professional career on hold to join the Navy during World War II, where he fought with Allied forces on D-Day and eventually earned a Purple Heart.

Bonnie CarrollBonnie Carroll is a life-long public servant who has devoted her life to caring for our military and veterans. After her husband, Brigadier General Tom Carroll, died in an Army C-12 plane crash in 1992, Carroll founded the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), which provides comprehensive support to those impacted by the death of their military hero, bringing healing comfort and compassionate care to the living legacies of our nation's service and sacrifice. Carroll is also a retired Major in the Air Force Reserve. She serves on the Defense Health Board, and co-chaired the Department of Defense Task Force on the Prevention of Suicide in the Armed Forces.

Shirley Chisholm (posthumous)Shirley Chisholm made history in 1968 by becoming the first African-American woman elected to Congress, beginning the first of seven terms in the House of Representatives. In 1969 she became one of the founding members of what would become the Congressional Black Caucus. Not satisfied, Chisholm went on to make history yet again, becoming the first major-party African-American female candidate to make a bid for the U.S. presidency when she ran for the Democratic nomination in 1972. She was a champion of minority education and employment opportunities throughout her tenure in Congress. After leaving Congress in 1983, Chisolm taught at Mount Holyoke College and frequently lectured and gave speeches at colleges and universities throughout the country.

Emilio Estefan Emilio Estefan is a passionate and visionary music producer, entrepreneur, author, and songwriter who has won nineteen Grammy Awards and influenced a generation of artists. As the founding member of the Miami Sound Machine, and later through a decades-long career producing and shaping the work of countless stars, Estefan has helped popularize Latin music around the world. He has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Emilio Estefan is an inductee to the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame and a recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.

Gloria Estefan Gloria Estefan is a singer, songwriter, actor, and entrepreneur who introduced Latin music to a global audience. The Cuban-American lead singer of the Miami Sound Machine has had chart topping hits such as “Conga,” “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” and “Anything for You.” Estefan has won seven Grammy Awards and is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, having sold more than 100 million records worldwide. She is an inductee to the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame and a recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. Estefan became one of the first mainstream Hispanic artists to crossover between English and Spanish language music paving the way for countless other Latin artists to follow.

Billy Frank, Jr. (posthumous)Billy Frank, Jr. was a tireless advocate for Indian treaty rights and environmental stewardship, whose activism paved the way for the “Boldt decision,” which reaffirmed tribal co-management of salmon resources in the state of Washington. Frank led effective “fish-ins,” which were modeled after sit-ins of the civil rights movement, during the tribal “fish wars” of the 1960s and 1970s. His magnetic personality and tireless advocacy over more than five decades made him a revered figure both domestically and abroad. Frank was the recipient of many awards, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Distinguished Service Award for Humanitarian Achievement. Frank left in his wake an Indian Country strengthened by greater sovereignty and a nation fortified by his example of service to one’s community, his humility, and his dedication to the principles of human rights and environmental sustainability.

Lee HamiltonLee Hamilton has been one of the most influential voices on international relations and American national security over the course of his more than 40 year career. From 1965 to 1999, he served Indiana in the United States House of Representatives, where his chairmanships included the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Select Committee to Investigate Covert Arms Transactions with Iran. Since retiring from Congress, Hamilton has been involved in efforts to address some of our nation’s most high profile homeland security and foreign policy challenges. He served as Vice Chairman of the 9/11 Commission and Co-Chairman of the Iraq Study Group. He was Co-Chairman of the Independent Task Force on Immigration and America’s Future, which issued a report in 2006 calling for reform of the nation’s immigration laws and system. And through the founding of the Center on Congress at Indiana University, he has also been a leading advocate for bi-partisanship and effective governance.

Katherine G. JohnsonKatherine G. Johnson is a pioneer in American space history. A NASA mathematician, Johnson's computations have influenced every major space program from Mercury through the Shuttle program. Johnson was hired as a research mathematician at the Langley Research Center with the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), the agency that preceded NASA, after they opened hiring to African-Americans and women. Johnson exhibited exceptional technical leadership and is known especially for her calculations of the 1961 trajectory for Alan Shepard’s flight (first American in space), the 1962 verification of the first flight calculation made by an electronic computer for John Glenn’s orbit (first American to orbit the earth), and the 1969 Apollo 11 trajectory to the moon. In her later NASA career, Johnson worked on the Space Shuttle program and the Earth Resources Satellite and encouraged students to pursue careers in science and technology fields.

Willie MaysWillie Mays was a professional baseball player, spending most of his 22 seasons as a center fielder for the New York and San Francisco Giants. Mays ended his career with 660 home runs, making him the fifth all-time record-holder. Known as “The Say Hey Kid,” Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979 and landed on MLB’s All-Time team. In 1951, Mays became one of the first African-American players in Major League Baseball history and won the Rookie of the Year award. Mays also served his country in the United States Army. In his return to Major League Baseball, Mays won the MVP award, and in the 1954 World Series Mays led the Giants to a surprise victory, while making one of the most spectacular plays in sports history, later known simply as “The Catch.”

Barbara MikulskiBarbara Mikulski is a lifelong public servant, who has held elected office since 1971. She became the longest serving female Senator in 2011, the longest serving woman in Congress in 2012, and the first female Senator to chair the Senate Appropriations Committee in 2012. Applying what she witnessed in her early career as a social worker and community activist in Baltimore, Maryland to her time in office, Senator Mikulski championed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, and helped establish the NIH Office of Research on Women's Health to include women in federally-funded health research protocols. She also helped to make college more affordable by reforming and increasing Pell grants and student loans and wrote the law that prevents seniors from going bankrupt while paying for a spouse’s nursing home care. She championed investments in research and innovation, most notably saving the Hubble Space Telescope. She is dean of the bipartisan Senate women, serving as their mentor.

Itzhak PerlmanItzhak Perlman is a treasured conductor and sought-after teacher. Among his many achievements are four Emmy Awards, 16 Grammy Awards, and the 2008 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was awarded a National Medal of Arts in 2000 and a Kennedy Center Honor in 2003. A native of Israel, he came to the United States at a young age and was introduced to Americans broadly when he appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1958. Mr. Perlman made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1963 when he was 18. In addition to performing internationally and recording the classical music for which he is best known, Perlman has also played jazz, including an album made with jazz pianist Oscar Peterson. Perlman has been the soloist for a number of film scores such as Schindler's List, which subsequently won an Academy Award for Best Original Score. Alongside his wife Toby, Mr. Perlman teaches talented young musicians through the Perlman Music Program. Through his advocacy and his example, he has been an important voice on behalf of persons with disabilities.

William RuckelshausWilliam D. Ruckelshaus is a dedicated public servant who has worked tirelessly to protect public health and combat global challenges like climate change. As the first and fifth Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, under Presidents Nixon and Reagan, he not only shaped the guiding principles of the agency, but also worked diligently to bring the public into the decision making process. Among the EPA’s key early achievements under his leadership was a nationwide ban on the pesticide DDT and an agreement with the automobile industry to require catalytic converters, which significantly reduced automobile pollution. He also demonstrated his commitment to public service and integrity as Deputy Attorney General. During the Watergate crisis, Ruckelshaus and Attorney General Elliot Richardson chose to resign rather than fire the Watergate special prosecutor. Their principled stance was a pivotal moment for the Justice Department and galvanized public opinion for upholding the rule of law. He continues to advance his legacy of collaborative problem solving in his current role at the University of Washington and Washington State University.

Stephen SondheimStephen Sondheim is one of the country’s most influential theater composers and lyricists. His work has helped define American theater with shows such as Company, West Side Story, Gypsy, SweeneyTodd, SundayintheParkwithGeorge, and IntotheWoods. Sondheim has received eight Grammy Awards, eight Tony Awards, an Academy Award, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Sondheim also founded Young Playwrights, Inc., to develop and promote the work of American playwrights aged 18 and younger.

Steven SpielbergSteven Spielberg is an American film director, producer, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. Spielberg's films include blockbusters such as Jaws, Jurassic Park, E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, and the Indiana Jones series, as well as socially conscious works Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, Lincoln, and his newest film Bridge of Spies. A three-time Academy Award winner, Spielberg is widely considered one of the most influential filmmakers in cinematic history. His films have grossed over 8.5 billion dollars worldwide. Spielberg is the co-founder of DreamWorks Studios as well as the founder of the USC Shoah Foundation, an organization dedicated to overcoming intolerance and bigotry through the use of visual history testimony.

Barbra StreisandBarbra Streisand is one of our Nation’s most gifted talents. Her body of work includes extraordinary singing, acting, directing, producing, songwriting, and she is one of the few performers to receive an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and a Tony. Her performance in 1968’s Funny Girl endeared her to Americans for generations, and she won her first Academy Award for her role in that film. In 1984, she became the first woman to win a Golden Globe for Best Director, which she won for the motion picture Yentl. Streisand is also a recipient of four Peabody Awards, in addition to the National Medal of Arts and Kennedy Center Honors. In 2009, she endowed the Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center at Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, which works to correct gender inequality in the research of a disease which each year kills more women than men.

James TaylorAs a recording and touring artist, James Taylor has touched people with his warm baritone voice and distinctive style of guitar-playing for more than 40 years, while setting a precedent to which countless young musicians have aspired. Over the course of his celebrated songwriting and performing career, Taylor has sold more than 100 million albums, earning gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards for classics ranging from Sweet Baby James in 1970 to October Road in 2002. In 2015 Taylor released Before This World, his first new studio album in thirteen years, which earned him his first ever #1 album. He has won multiple Grammy awards and has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the prestigious Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Minoru Yasui (posthumous)Minoru Yasui was a civil and human rights leader known for his continuous defense of the ideals of democracy embodied in our Constitution. A graduate of the University of Oregon School of Law, Yasui challenged the constitutionality of a military curfew order during World War II on the grounds of racial discrimination, and spent nine months in solitary confinement during the subsequent legal battle. In 1943, the Supreme Court upheld the military curfew order. Yasui spent the rest of his life appealing his wartime conviction. At the time of his death in 1986, he had successfully convinced a trial court to vacate his arrest, and a case challenging the constitutionality of his conviction was pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Yasui also spent his life fighting for the human and civil rights of all people.